1
|
Ramsay MS, Sgarlata GM, Barratt CD, Salmona J, Andriatsitohaina B, Kiene F, Manzi S, Ramilison ML, Rakotondravony R, Chikhi L, Lehman SM, Radespiel U. Effects of Forest Fragmentation on Connectivity and Genetic Diversity in an Endemic and an Invasive Rodent in Northwestern Madagascar. Genes (Basel) 2023; 14:1451. [PMID: 37510355 PMCID: PMC10378931 DOI: 10.3390/genes14071451] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/02/2023] [Revised: 07/07/2023] [Accepted: 07/13/2023] [Indexed: 07/30/2023] Open
Abstract
Habitat loss and fragmentation are of concern to conservation biologists worldwide. However, not all organisms are affected equally by these processes; thus, it is important to study the effects of living in fragmented habitats on species that differ in lifestyle and habitat requirements. In this study, we examined the dispersal and connectivity patterns of rodents, one endemic (Eliurus myoxinus) and one invasive (Rattus rattus), in two landscapes containing forest fragments and adjacent continuous forest patches in northwestern Madagascar. We generated genetic (RADseq) data for 66 E. myoxinus and 81 R. rattus individuals to evaluate differences in genetic diversity as well as inbreeding and connectivity in two landscapes. We found higher levels of inbreeding and lower levels of genetic diversity in E. myoxinus compared with R. rattus. We observed related dyads both within and between habitat patches and positive spatial autocorrelation at lower distance classes for both species, with a stronger pattern of spatial autocorrelation in R. rattus. Across each site, we identified contrasting migration rates for each species, but these did not correspond to habitat-matrix dichotomies. The relatively low genetic diversity in the endemic E. myoxinus suggests ecological constraints that require further investigation.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Malcolm S Ramsay
- Department of Anthropology, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON M5S 2S2, Canada
- Institute of Zoology, University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, Foundation, 30559 Hannover, Germany
| | | | - Christopher D Barratt
- German Centre for Integrative Biodiversity Research (iDiv) Halle-Jena-Leipzig, 04103 Leipzig, Germany
| | - Jordi Salmona
- CNRS-UPS-IRD, UMR5174, Laboratoire Évolution & Diversité Biologique, Université Paul Sabatier, 31062 Toulouse, France
| | - Bertrand Andriatsitohaina
- Planet Madagascar, Antananarivo 101, Madagascar
- Faculté des Sciences, de Technologies et de l'Environnement, Université de Mahajanga, Mahajanga 401, Madagascar
| | - Frederik Kiene
- Institute of Zoology, University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, Foundation, 30559 Hannover, Germany
| | - Sophie Manzi
- CNRS-UPS-IRD, UMR5174, Laboratoire Évolution & Diversité Biologique, Université Paul Sabatier, 31062 Toulouse, France
| | - Miarisoa L Ramilison
- Faculté des Sciences, de Technologies et de l'Environnement, Université de Mahajanga, Mahajanga 401, Madagascar
- Department of Primate Behavior and Ecology, Central Washington University, Ellensburg, WA 98926, USA
| | - Romule Rakotondravony
- Faculté des Sciences, de Technologies et de l'Environnement, Université de Mahajanga, Mahajanga 401, Madagascar
| | - Lounès Chikhi
- Instituto Gulbenkian de Ciência, 2780-156 Oeiras, Portugal
- CNRS-UPS-IRD, UMR5174, Laboratoire Évolution & Diversité Biologique, Université Paul Sabatier, 31062 Toulouse, France
| | - Shawn M Lehman
- Department of Anthropology, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON M5S 2S2, Canada
| | - Ute Radespiel
- Institute of Zoology, University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, Foundation, 30559 Hannover, Germany
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Teixeira H, Salmona J, Arredondo A, Mourato B, Manzi S, Rakotondravony R, Mazet O, Chikhi L, Metzger J, Radespiel U. Impact of model assumptions on demographic inferences: the case study of two sympatric mouse lemurs in northwestern Madagascar. BMC Ecol Evol 2021; 21:197. [PMID: 34727890 PMCID: PMC8561976 DOI: 10.1186/s12862-021-01929-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/10/2021] [Accepted: 10/18/2021] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Quaternary climate fluctuations have been acknowledged as major drivers of the geographical distribution of the extraordinary biodiversity observed in tropical biomes, including Madagascar. The main existing framework for Pleistocene Malagasy diversification assumes that forest cover was strongly shaped by warmer Interglacials (leading to forest expansion) and by cooler and arid glacials (leading to forest contraction), but predictions derived from this scenario for forest-dwelling animals have rarely been tested with genomic datasets. RESULTS We generated genomic data and applied three complementary demographic approaches (Stairway Plot, PSMC and IICR-simulations) to infer population size and connectivity changes for two forest-dependent primate species (Microcebus murinus and M. ravelobensis) in northwestern Madagascar. The analyses suggested major demographic changes in both species that could be interpreted in two ways, depending on underlying model assumptions (i.e., panmixia or population structure). Under panmixia, the two species exhibited larger population sizes across the Last Glacial Maximum (LGM) and towards the African Humid Period (AHP). This peak was followed by a population decline in M. ravelobensis until the present, while M. murinus may have experienced a second population expansion that was followed by a sharp decline starting 3000 years ago. In contrast, simulations under population structure suggested decreasing population connectivity between the Last Interglacial and the LGM for both species, but increased connectivity during the AHP exclusively for M. murinus. CONCLUSION Our study shows that closely related species may differ in their responses to climatic events. Assuming that Pleistocene climatic conditions in the lowlands were similar to those in the Malagasy highlands, some demographic dynamics would be better explained by changes in population connectivity than in population size. However, changes in connectivity alone cannot be easily reconciled with a founder effect that was shown for M. murinus during its colonization of the northwestern Madagascar in the late Pleistocene. To decide between the two alternative models, more knowledge about historic forest dynamics in lowland habitats is necessary. Altogether, our study stresses that demographic inferences strongly depend on the underlying model assumptions. Final conclusions should therefore be based on a comparative evaluation of multiple approaches.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Helena Teixeira
- Institute of Zoology, University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, Foundation, Bünteweg 17, 30559, Hannover, Germany.
| | - Jordi Salmona
- Laboratoire Évolution and Diversité Biologique (EDB UMR 5174), Université de Toulouse Midi-Pyrénées, CNRS, IRD, UPS, 118 Route de Narbonne, Bât. 4R1, 31062, Toulouse cedex 9, France
| | - Armando Arredondo
- Instituto Gulbenkian de Ciência, Rua da Quinta Grande, 6, 2780-156, Oeiras, Portugal
- Université de Toulouse, Institut National des Sciences Appliquées, Institut de Mathématiques de Toulouse, Toulouse, France
| | - Beatriz Mourato
- Instituto Gulbenkian de Ciência, Rua da Quinta Grande, 6, 2780-156, Oeiras, Portugal
| | - Sophie Manzi
- Laboratoire Évolution and Diversité Biologique (EDB UMR 5174), Université de Toulouse Midi-Pyrénées, CNRS, IRD, UPS, 118 Route de Narbonne, Bât. 4R1, 31062, Toulouse cedex 9, France
| | - Romule Rakotondravony
- Ecole Doctorale Ecosystèmes Naturels (EDEN), University of Mahajanga, 5 Rue Georges V - Immeuble KAKAL, Mahajanga Be, B.P. 652, 401, Mahajanga, Madagascar
- Faculté des Sciences, de Technologies et de l'Environnement, University of Mahajanga, 5 Rue Georges V - Immeuble KAKAL, Mahajanga Be, B.P. 652, 401, Mahajanga, Madagascar
| | - Olivier Mazet
- Université de Toulouse, Institut National des Sciences Appliquées, Institut de Mathématiques de Toulouse, Toulouse, France
| | - Lounès Chikhi
- Laboratoire Évolution and Diversité Biologique (EDB UMR 5174), Université de Toulouse Midi-Pyrénées, CNRS, IRD, UPS, 118 Route de Narbonne, Bât. 4R1, 31062, Toulouse cedex 9, France
- Instituto Gulbenkian de Ciência, Rua da Quinta Grande, 6, 2780-156, Oeiras, Portugal
| | - Julia Metzger
- Institute of Animal Breeding and Genetics, University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, Foundation, Bünteweg 17p, 30559, Hannover, Germany
- Veterinary Functional Genomics, Max Planck Institute for Molecular Genetics, Ihnestrasse 73, 14195, Berlin, Germany
| | - Ute Radespiel
- Institute of Zoology, University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, Foundation, Bünteweg 17, 30559, Hannover, Germany.
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Teixeira H, Montade V, Salmona J, Metzger J, Bremond L, Kasper T, Daut G, Rouland S, Ranarilalatiana S, Rakotondravony R, Chikhi L, Behling H, Radespiel U. Past environmental changes affected lemur population dynamics prior to human impact in Madagascar. Commun Biol 2021; 4:1084. [PMID: 34526636 PMCID: PMC8443640 DOI: 10.1038/s42003-021-02620-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/07/2021] [Accepted: 08/31/2021] [Indexed: 02/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Quaternary climatic changes have been invoked as important drivers of species diversification worldwide. However, the impact of such changes on vegetation and animal population dynamics in tropical regions remains debated. To overcome this uncertainty, we integrated high-resolution paleoenvironmental reconstructions from a sedimentary record covering the past 25,000 years with demographic inferences of a forest-dwelling primate species (Microcebus arnholdi), in northern Madagascar. Result comparisons suggest that climate changes through the African Humid Period (15.2 - 5.5 kyr) strongly affected the demographic dynamics of M. arnholdi. We further inferred a population decline in the last millennium which was likely shaped by the combination of climatic and anthropogenic impacts. Our findings demonstrate that population fluctuations in Malagasy wildlife were substantial prior to a significant human impact. This provides a critical knowledge of climatically driven, environmental and ecological changes in the past, which is essential to better understand the dynamics and resilience of current biodiversity.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Helena Teixeira
- grid.412970.90000 0001 0126 6191Institute of Zoology, University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, Bünteweg 17, 30559 Hannover, Germany
| | - Vincent Montade
- grid.7450.60000 0001 2364 4210University of Goettingen, Department of Palynology and Climate Dynamics, Untere Karspüle 2, 37073 Goettingen, Germany ,grid.462058.d0000 0001 2188 7059ISEM, Université Montpellier, CNRS, IRD, EPHE, Place Eugène Bataillon, Montpellier, France
| | - Jordi Salmona
- grid.15781.3a0000 0001 0723 035XCNRS-UPS-IRD, UMR5174, Laboratoire Évolution & Diversité Biologique, Université Paul Sabatier, 118 route de Narbonne, 31062 Toulouse, France
| | - Julia Metzger
- grid.412970.90000 0001 0126 6191Institute of Animal Breeding and Genetics, University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, Bünteweg 17p, 30559 Hannover, Germany ,grid.419538.20000 0000 9071 0620Veterinary Functional Genomics, Max Planck Institute for Molecular Genetics, Ihnestrasse 73, 14195 Berlin, Germany
| | - Laurent Bremond
- grid.462058.d0000 0001 2188 7059ISEM, Université Montpellier, CNRS, IRD, EPHE, Place Eugène Bataillon, Montpellier, France
| | - Thomas Kasper
- grid.9613.d0000 0001 1939 2794Friedrich-Schiller-University Jena, Department of Physical Geography, Loebdergraben 32, 07743 Jena, Germany
| | - Gerhard Daut
- grid.9613.d0000 0001 1939 2794Friedrich-Schiller-University Jena, Department of Physical Geography, Loebdergraben 32, 07743 Jena, Germany
| | - Sylvie Rouland
- grid.462058.d0000 0001 2188 7059ISEM, Université Montpellier, CNRS, IRD, EPHE, Place Eugène Bataillon, Montpellier, France
| | - Sandratrinirainy Ranarilalatiana
- grid.440419.c0000 0001 2165 5629Université d’Antananarivo, Faculté des Sciences, Mention Biologie et Ecologie Végétale, Laboratoire de Palynologie Appliquée, B.P 905 - 101, Antananarivo, Madagascar
| | - Romule Rakotondravony
- Ecole Doctorale Ecosystèmes Naturels (EDEN), University of Mahajanga, 5 Rue Georges V - Immeuble KAKAL, Mahajanga Be, B.P. 652, Mahajanga, 401 Madagascar ,Faculté des Sciences, de Technologies et de l’Environnement, University of Mahajanga, 5 Rue Georges V - Immeuble KAKAL, Mahajanga Be, B.P. 652, Mahajanga, 401 Madagascar
| | - Lounès Chikhi
- grid.418346.c0000 0001 2191 3202Instituto Gulbenkian de Ciência, Rua da Quinta Grande, 6, P-2780-156 Oeiras, Portugal ,grid.4399.70000000122879528Laboratoire Évolution & Diversité Biologique (EDB UMR 5174), Université de Toulouse Midi-Pyrénées, CNRS, IRD, UPS, 118 route de Narbonne, Bât. 4R1, 31062 Toulouse cedex 9, France
| | - Hermann Behling
- grid.7450.60000 0001 2364 4210University of Goettingen, Department of Palynology and Climate Dynamics, Untere Karspüle 2, 37073 Goettingen, Germany
| | - Ute Radespiel
- grid.412970.90000 0001 0126 6191Institute of Zoology, University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, Bünteweg 17, 30559 Hannover, Germany
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Westphal D, Mancini AN, Baden AL. Primate landscape genetics: A review and practical guide. Evol Anthropol 2021; 30:171-184. [PMID: 33720482 DOI: 10.1002/evan.21891] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/15/2019] [Revised: 06/12/2020] [Accepted: 02/17/2021] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
Landscape genetics is an emerging field that integrates population genetics, landscape ecology, and spatial statistics to investigate how geographical and environmental features and evolutionary processes such as gene flow, genetic drift, and selection structure genetic variation at both the population and individual levels, with implications for ecology, evolution, and conservation biology. Despite being particularly well suited for primatologists, this method is currently underutilized. Here, we synthesize the current state of research on landscape genetics in primates. We begin by outlining how landscape genetics has been used to disentangle the drivers of diversity, followed by a review of how landscape genetic methods have been applied to primates. This is followed by a section highlighting special considerations when applying the methods to primates, and a practical guide to facilitate further landscape genetics studies using both existing and de novo datasets. We conclude by exploring future avenues of inquiry that could be facilitated by recent developments as well as underdeveloped applications of landscape genetics to primates.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Darice Westphal
- Department of Anthropology, The Graduate Center, City University of New York, New York, New York, USA.,The New York Consortium in Evolutionary Primatology (NYCEP), New York, New York, USA
| | - Amanda N Mancini
- Department of Anthropology, The Graduate Center, City University of New York, New York, New York, USA.,The New York Consortium in Evolutionary Primatology (NYCEP), New York, New York, USA
| | - Andrea L Baden
- Department of Anthropology, The Graduate Center, City University of New York, New York, New York, USA.,The New York Consortium in Evolutionary Primatology (NYCEP), New York, New York, USA.,Department of Anthropology, Hunter College, New York, New York, USA
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Chandrashekar A, Knierim JA, Khan S, Raboin DL, Venkatesh S, Clarke TA, Cuozzo FP, LaFleur M, Lawler RR, Parga JA, Rasamimanana HR, Reuter KE, Sauther ML, Baden AL. Genetic population structure of endangered ring-tailed lemurs ( Lemur catta) from nine sites in southern Madagascar. Ecol Evol 2020; 10:8030-8043. [PMID: 32788959 PMCID: PMC7417237 DOI: 10.1002/ece3.6337] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/22/2019] [Revised: 03/31/2020] [Accepted: 04/09/2020] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
Abstract
Madagascar's ring-tailed lemurs (Lemur catta) are experiencing rapid population declines due to ongoing habitat loss and fragmentation, as well as increasing exploitation for bushmeat and the illegal pet trade. Despite being the focus of extensive and ongoing behavioral studies, there is comparatively little known about the genetic population structuring of the species. Here, we present the most comprehensive population genetic analysis of ring-tailed lemurs to date from across their likely remaining geographic range. We assessed levels of genetic diversity and population genetic structure using multilocus genotypes for 106 adult individuals from nine geographically representative localities. Population structure and F ST analyses revealed moderate genetic differentiation with localities being geographically partitioned into northern, southern, western and also potentially central clusters. Overall genetic diversity, in terms of allelic richness and observed heterozygosity, was high in the species (AR = 4.74, H O = 0.811). In fact, it is the highest among all published lemur estimates to date. While these results are encouraging, ring-tailed lemurs are currently affected by ongoing habitat fragmentation and occur at lower densities in poorer quality habitats. The effects of continued isolation and fragmentation, coupled with climate-driven environmental instability, will therefore likely impede the long-term viability of the species.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Aparna Chandrashekar
- Department of AnthropologyHunter College of the City University of New YorkNew YorkNYUSA
- Present address:
San Diego Zoo Global Institute for Conservation ResearchSan DiegoCAUSA
| | - Jessica A. Knierim
- Animal Behavior and Conservation ProgramDepartment of PsychologyHunter College of the City University of New YorkNew YorkNYUSA
- Present address:
Wildlife AllianceNew YorkNYUSA
| | - Sohail Khan
- Department of AnthropologyHunter College of the City University of New YorkNew YorkNYUSA
| | - Dominique L. Raboin
- Animal Behavior and Conservation ProgramDepartment of PsychologyHunter College of the City University of New YorkNew YorkNYUSA
- Present address:
Rutgers UniversityNew BrunswickNJUSA
| | - Sateesh Venkatesh
- Animal Behavior and Conservation ProgramDepartment of PsychologyHunter College of the City University of New YorkNew YorkNYUSA
| | - Tara A. Clarke
- Department of Sociology and AnthropologyNorth Carolina State UniversityRaleighNCUSA
| | | | - Marni LaFleur
- Department of AnthropologyUniversity of San DiegoSan DiegoCAUSA
- Lemur Love, Inc.San DiegoCAUSA
| | - Richard R. Lawler
- Department of Sociology and AnthropologyJames Madison UniversityHarrisonburgVAUSA
| | - Joyce A. Parga
- Department of AnthropologyCalifornia State University‐Los AngelesLos AngelesCAUSA
| | | | - Kim E. Reuter
- Pet Lemur SurveyHoused by the University of UtahSalt Lake CityUTUSA
| | | | - Andrea L. Baden
- Department of AnthropologyHunter College of the City University of New YorkNew YorkNYUSA
- Department of AnthropologyThe Graduate Center of the City University of New YorkNew YorkNYUSA
- The New York Consortium in Evolutionary Primatology (NYCEP)New YorkNYUSA
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Donati G, Campera M, Balestri M, Barresi M, Kesch K, Ndremifidy K, Rabenantoandro J, Racevska E, Randriatafika F, Ravaolahy M, Ravoahangy AM, Roma M, Rowe F, Santini L, Serra V, Zander SL, Tsagnangara C, Vincelette M, Ramanamanjato JB. Life in a fragment: Evolution of foraging strategies of translocated collared brown lemurs, Eulemur collaris, over an 18-year period. Am J Primatol 2020; 82:e23106. [PMID: 32072654 DOI: 10.1002/ajp.23106] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/12/2019] [Revised: 01/21/2020] [Accepted: 01/30/2020] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
While the drivers of primate persistence in forest fragments have been often considered at the population level, the strategies to persist in these habitats have been little investigated at the individual or group level. Considering the rapid variation of fragment characteristics over time, longitudinal data on primates living in fragmented habitats are necessary to understand the key elements for their persistence. Since translocated animals have to cope with unfamiliar areas and face unknown fluctuations in food abundance, they offer the opportunity to study the factors contributing to successful migration between fragments. Here, we illustrated the evolution of the foraging strategies of translocated collared brown lemurs (Eulemur collaris) over an 18-year period in the Mandena Conservation Zone, south-east Madagascar. Our aim was to explore the ability of these frugivorous lemurs to adjust to recently colonized fragmented forests. Although the lemurs remained mainly frugivorous throughout the study period, over the years we identified a reduction in the consumption of leaves and exotic/pioneer plant species. These adjustments were expected in frugivorous primates living in a degraded area, but we hypothesize that they may also reflect the initial need to cope with an unfamiliar environment after the translocation. Since fragmentation is often associated with the loss of large trees and native vegetation, we suggest that the availability of exotic and/or pioneer plant species can provide an easy-to-access, nonseasonal food resource and be a key factor for persistence during the initial stage of the recolonization.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Giuseppe Donati
- Department of Social Sciences, Oxford Brookes University, Oxford, UK
| | - Marco Campera
- Department of Social Sciences, Oxford Brookes University, Oxford, UK
| | - Michela Balestri
- Department of Social Sciences, Oxford Brookes University, Oxford, UK
| | - Marta Barresi
- Department of Biology, University of Pisa, Pisa, Italy
| | | | - Kelard Ndremifidy
- Departement Biologie Animale, Universite´ d'Antananarivo, Antananarivo, Madagascar
| | | | - Elena Racevska
- Department of Social Sciences, Oxford Brookes University, Oxford, UK
| | | | - Murielle Ravaolahy
- Departement Biologie Animale, Universite´ d'Antananarivo, Antananarivo, Madagascar
| | | | - Marika Roma
- Department of Biology, University of Pisa, Pisa, Italy
| | - Fiona Rowe
- Department of Social Sciences, Oxford Brookes University, Oxford, UK
| | - Luca Santini
- Department of Environmental Science, Faculty of Science, Radboud University, Nijmegen, The Netherlands.,Institute of Research on Terrestrial Ecosystems, Research Council, Rome, Italy
| | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
7
|
Aleixo-Pais I, Salmona J, Sgarlata GM, Rakotonanahary A, Sousa AP, Parreira B, Kun-Rodrigues C, Ralantoharijaona T, Jan F, Rasolondraibe E, Minhós T, Zaonarivelo JR, Andriaholinirina NV, Chikhi L. The genetic structure of a mouse lemur living in a fragmented habitat in Northern Madagascar. CONSERV GENET 2018. [DOI: 10.1007/s10592-018-1126-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
|
8
|
Abstract
AbstractHabitat fragmentation creates habitat edges, and ecological edge effects can cause major changes in the ecology and distribution of many taxa. However, these ecological changes may in turn influence animal movements and lead to molecular edge effects and edge-related genetic structure, matters that are largely unexplored. This study aims to infer molecular edge effects and to test three possible underlying mechanisms in the Endangered golden-brown mouse lemur Microcebus ravelobensis, a nocturnal species in the dry deciduous forest of the Ankarafantsika National Park in north-western Madagascar. Mouse lemurs were sampled in one edge and two interior habitats in close proximity to each other (500–1,400 m) in a continuous forest. A total of 41 mouse lemur samples were genotyped with seven nuclear microsatellites, and a fragment of the mitochondrial control region was sequenced for all samples. The overall genetic diversity (allelic richness, heterozygosity, haplotype richness, nucleotide diversity) was lower in the edge habitat compared to the two interior sites and all subpopulations showed signals of relatively low genetic exchange and significant genetic differentiation between them despite the short geographical distances, supporting the local preference model. These findings can be interpreted as preliminary signals of a molecular edge effect and suggest the potential for local adaptation. They are highly relevant for the conservation of fragmented populations, because a further subdivision of already small populations may increase their vulnerability to stochastic demographic changes and collapse.
Collapse
|
9
|
Lemur species-specific metapopulation responses to habitat loss and fragmentation. PLoS One 2018; 13:e0195791. [PMID: 29742108 PMCID: PMC5942715 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0195791] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/13/2017] [Accepted: 03/29/2018] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Determining what factors affect species occurrence is vital to the study of primate biogeography. We investigated the metapopulation dynamics of a lemur community consisting of eight species (Avahi occidentalis, Propithecus coquereli, Microcebus murinus, Microcebus ravelobensis, Lepilemur edwardsi, Cheirogaleus medius, Eulemur mongoz, and Eulemur fulvus) within fragmented tropical dry deciduous forest habitat in Ankarafantsika National Park, Madagascar. We measured fragment size and isolation of 42 fragments of forest ranging in size from 0.23 to 117.7 ha adjacent to continuous forest. Between June and November 2011, we conducted 1218 surveys and observed six of eight lemur species (M. murinus, M. ravelobensis, C. medius, E. fulvus, P. coquereli, and L. edwardsi) in the 42 fragments. We applied among patch incidence function models (IFMs) with various measures of dispersal and a mainland-island IFM to lemur species occurrence, with the aim of answering the following questions: 1) Do lemur species in dry deciduous forest fragments form metapopulations? 2) What are the separate effects of area (extinction risk) and connectivity/isolation (colonization potential) within a lemur metapopulation? 3) Within simulated metapopulations over time, how do area and connectivity/isolation affect occurrence? and 4) What are the conservation implications of our findings? We found that M. murinus formed either a mainland-island or an among patch metapopulation, M. ravelobensis formed a mainland-island metapopulation, C. medius and E. fulvus formed among patch metapopulations, and neither P. coquereli or L. edwardsi formed a metapopulation. Metapopulation dynamics and simulations suggest that area was a more consistent positive factor determining lemur species occurrence than fragment isolation and is crucial to the maintenance of lemur populations within this fragmented landscape. Using a metapopulation approach to lemur biogeography is critical for understanding how lemur species respond to forest loss and fragmentation.
Collapse
|
10
|
The effects of a national highway on the Endangered golden-brown mouse lemur Microcebus ravelobensis in Ankarafantsika National Park, Madagascar. ORYX 2017. [DOI: 10.1017/s0030605317001284] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/07/2022] Open
Abstract
AbstractAlthough roads are often assumed to be barriers to the dispersal of arboreal species, there has been little empirical testing of this assumption. If arboreal animals are unable to cross roads, population subdivision may occur, or resources may become inaccessible. We tested the hypothesis that Route Nationale 4 (RN4), a paved highway, was a barrier to movement and dispersal of the Endangered golden-brown mouse lemur Microcebus ravelobensis in Ankarafantsika National Park, in north-west Madagascar. During June–August 2015 we conducted a capture–mark–recapture study at three sites: two adjacent to RN4 and one within intact forest without a potential barrier. During 2,294 trap nights we captured 120 golden-brown mouse lemurs 1,032 times. In roadside habitats we captured significantly more males than females, whereas the opposite was the case in interior forest habitat. We detected eighteen crossings of highway transects by nine individuals; however, all potential dispersal events involved males. In roadside habitat, movement was significantly inhibited in both males and females. We present some of the first data on the effects of roads on movement patterns in arboreal Malagasy mammals, showing species- and sex-biased effects of roads as dispersal barriers. Our findings indicate that roads may not be complete barriers to dispersal in lemurs. We recommend that conservation managers and scientists examine explicitly the effects of roads and natural arboreal bridges in Madagascar in future studies.
Collapse
|
11
|
Bertoncini S, D'Ercole J, Brisighelli F, Ramanamanjato J, Capelli C, Tofanelli S, Donati G. Stuck in fragments: Population genetics of the Endangered collared brown lemur
Eulemur collaris
in the Malagasy littoral forest. AMERICAN JOURNAL OF PHYSICAL ANTHROPOLOGY 2017; 163:542-552. [DOI: 10.1002/ajpa.23230] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/23/2017] [Revised: 03/30/2017] [Accepted: 04/04/2017] [Indexed: 11/10/2022]
Affiliation(s)
| | - Jacopo D'Ercole
- Department of Biology, University of PisaVia Ghini 13Pisa56126 Italy
- Department of Integrative Biology Centre for Biodiversity GenomicsUniversity of GuelphGuelph OntarioN1G 2W1 Canada
| | - Francesca Brisighelli
- Forensic Genetics LaboratoryInstitute of Legal Medicine, Università Cattolica del Sacro CuoreRoma Italia
- Department of ZoologyUniversity of OxfordSouth Parks RoadOxfordOX1 3PS United Kingdom
| | | | - Cristian Capelli
- Department of ZoologyUniversity of OxfordSouth Parks RoadOxfordOX1 3PS United Kingdom
| | - Sergio Tofanelli
- Department of Biology, University of PisaVia Ghini 13Pisa56126 Italy
| | - Giuseppe Donati
- Department of Social SciencesOxford Brookes UniversityOxford United Kingdom
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
Wang W, Qiao Y, Li S, Pan W, Yao M. Low genetic diversity and strong population structure shaped by anthropogenic habitat fragmentation in a critically endangered primate, Trachypithecus leucocephalus. Heredity (Edinb) 2017; 118:542-553. [PMID: 28198816 DOI: 10.1038/hdy.2017.2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/13/2016] [Revised: 01/06/2017] [Accepted: 01/07/2017] [Indexed: 01/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Habitat fragmentation may strongly impact population genetic structure and reduce the genetic diversity and viability of small and isolated populations. The white-headed langur (Trachypithecus leucocephalus) is a critically endangered primate species living in a highly fragmented and human-modified habitat in southern China. We examined the population genetic structure and genetic diversity of the species and investigated the environmental and anthropogenic factors that may have shaped its population structure. We used 214 unique multi-locus genotypes from 41 social groups across the main distribution area of T. leucocephalus, and found strong genetic structure and significant genetic differentiation among local populations. Our landscape genetic analyses using a causal modelling framework suggest that a large habitat gap and geographical distance represent the primary landscape elements shaping genetic structure, yet high levels of genetic differentiation also exist between patches separated by a small habitat gap or road. This is the first comprehensive study that has evaluated the population genetic structure and diversity of T. leucocephalus using nuclear markers. Our results indicate strong negative impacts of anthropogenic land modifications and habitat fragmentation on primate genetic connectivity between forest patches. Our analyses suggest that two management units of the species could be defined, and indicate that habitat continuity should be enforced and restored to reduce genetic isolation and enhance population viability.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- W Wang
- School of Life Sciences, Peking University, Beijing, China.,Beijing National Day School, Beijing, China
| | - Y Qiao
- School of Life Sciences, Peking University, Beijing, China
| | - S Li
- School of Life Sciences, Peking University, Beijing, China
| | - W Pan
- School of Life Sciences, Peking University, Beijing, China
| | - M Yao
- School of Life Sciences, Peking University, Beijing, China
| |
Collapse
|
13
|
Genetic Diversity, Population Size, and Conservation of the Critically Endangered Perrier’s Sifaka (Propithecus perrieri). INT J PRIMATOL 2015. [DOI: 10.1007/s10764-015-9881-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
|
14
|
Testing the Influence of Habitat Structure and Geographic Distance on the Genetic Differentiation of Mouse Lemurs (Microcebus) in Madagascar. INT J PRIMATOL 2015. [DOI: 10.1007/s10764-015-9855-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
|
15
|
McKinney T. A classification system for describing anthropogenic influence on nonhuman primate populations. Am J Primatol 2015; 77:715-26. [PMID: 25809676 DOI: 10.1002/ajp.22395] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/17/2014] [Revised: 02/06/2015] [Accepted: 02/16/2015] [Indexed: 11/12/2022]
Abstract
Many nonhuman primates live in proximity to humans, and all studied primate populations are influenced in some ways by human interaction. While the effects of human interference on primate behavior and ecology are an important area of research in contemporary primatology, to date there is no systematic way to report the types or level of anthropogenic influence for a primate study population. In this paper, I introduce a diagnostic classification system that will allow primate field researchers to clearly and consistently report anthropogenic conditions at their study sites. This system provides a way to identify population conditions for four major variables: landscape, human-nonhuman primate interface, diet, and predation risk. The incredible diversity of the Order Primates necessitates a descriptive system that is applicable across a wide range of habitat types, social groupings, and ecological roles, so the proposed classification system has been specifically designed to avoid quantitative ranking. Instead, the system is intended to provide a standardized way to report a wealth of population and site information in a simple format. This will allow for meta-analysis of specific conditions across study sites, leading to a greater understanding of the effects of different forms of anthropogenic influence on primate behavior and ecology.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Tracie McKinney
- Applied Sciences, University of South Wales, Pontypridd, United Kingdom
| |
Collapse
|
16
|
Pechouskova E, Dammhahn M, Brameier M, Fichtel C, Kappeler PM, Huchard E. MHC class II variation in a rare and ecological specialist mouse lemur reveals lower allelic richness and contrasting selection patterns compared to a generalist and widespread sympatric congener. Immunogenetics 2015; 67:229-45. [PMID: 25687337 PMCID: PMC4357647 DOI: 10.1007/s00251-015-0827-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/02/2014] [Accepted: 01/30/2015] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
The polymorphism of immunogenes of the major histocompatibility complex (MHC) is thought to influence the functional plasticity of immune responses and, consequently, the fitness of populations facing heterogeneous pathogenic pressures. Here, we evaluated MHC variation (allelic richness and divergence) and patterns of selection acting on the two highly polymorphic MHC class II loci (DRB and DQB) in the endangered primate Madame Berthe’s mouse lemur (Microcebus berthae). Using 454 pyrosequencing, we examined MHC variation in a total of 100 individuals sampled over 9 years in Kirindy Forest, Western Madagascar, and compared our findings with data obtained previously for its sympatric congener, the grey mouse lemur (Microcebus murinus). These species exhibit a contrasting ecology and demography that were expected to affect MHC variation and molecular signatures of selection. We found a lower allelic richness concordant with its low population density, but a similar level of allelic divergence and signals of historical selection in the rare feeding specialist M. berthae compared to the widespread generalist M. murinus. These findings suggest that demographic factors may exert a stronger influence than pathogen-driven selection on current levels of allelic richness in M. berthae. Despite a high sequence similarity between the two congeners, contrasting selection patterns detected at DQB suggest its potential functional divergence. This study represents a first step toward unravelling factors influencing the adaptive divergence of MHC genes between closely related but ecologically differentiated sympatric lemurs and opens new questions regarding potential functional discrepancy that would explain contrasting selection patterns detected at DQB.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Eva Pechouskova
- Behavioral Ecology and Sociobiology Unit, German Primate Center, Kellnerweg 4, Göttingen, Germany,
| | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
17
|
Medley KA, Jenkins DG, Hoffman EA. Human-aided and natural dispersal drive gene flow across the range of an invasive mosquito. Mol Ecol 2014; 24:284-95. [DOI: 10.1111/mec.12925] [Citation(s) in RCA: 73] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/21/2013] [Revised: 09/09/2014] [Accepted: 09/12/2014] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Kim A. Medley
- Department of Biology; University of Central Florida; 4000 Central Florida Blvd. Orlando FL 32816 USA
- Tyson Research Center; Washington University in St. Louis; 6750 Tyson Valley Road Eureka MO 63025 USA
| | - David G. Jenkins
- Department of Biology; University of Central Florida; 4000 Central Florida Blvd. Orlando FL 32816 USA
| | - Eric A. Hoffman
- Department of Biology; University of Central Florida; 4000 Central Florida Blvd. Orlando FL 32816 USA
| |
Collapse
|
18
|
Zancolli G, Rödel MO, Steffan-Dewenter I, Storfer A. Comparative landscape genetics of two river frog species occurring at different elevations on Mount Kilimanjaro. Mol Ecol 2014; 23:4989-5002. [DOI: 10.1111/mec.12921] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/15/2014] [Revised: 09/07/2014] [Accepted: 09/10/2014] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Giulia Zancolli
- Department of Animal Ecology and Tropical Biology; Biocentre; University of Würzburg; Am Hubland 97074 Würzburg Germany
- School of Biological Sciences; Washington State University; Pullman WA 99164 USA
| | - Mark-Oliver Rödel
- Museum für Naturkunde; Leibniz Institute for Evolution and Biodiversity Science; Invalidenstr. 43 10115 Berlin Germany
- Berlin-Brandenburg Institute of Advanced Biodiversity Research (BBIB); Berlin Germany
| | - Ingolf Steffan-Dewenter
- Department of Animal Ecology and Tropical Biology; Biocentre; University of Würzburg; Am Hubland 97074 Würzburg Germany
| | - Andrew Storfer
- School of Biological Sciences; Washington State University; Pullman WA 99164 USA
| |
Collapse
|
19
|
Baden AL, Holmes SM, Johnson SE, Engberg SE, Louis EE, Bradley BJ. Species-level view of population structure and gene flow for a critically endangered primate (Varecia variegata). Ecol Evol 2014; 4:2675-92. [PMID: 25077019 PMCID: PMC4113292 DOI: 10.1002/ece3.1119] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/09/2014] [Revised: 04/25/2014] [Accepted: 04/28/2014] [Indexed: 11/09/2022] Open
Abstract
Lemurs are among the world's most threatened mammals. The critically endangered black-and-white ruffed lemur (Varecia variegata), in particular, has recently experienced rapid population declines due to habitat loss, ecological sensitivities to habitat degradation, and extensive human hunting pressure. Despite this, a recent study indicates that ruffed lemurs retain among the highest levels of genetic diversity for primates. Identifying how this diversity is apportioned and whether gene flow is maintained among remnant populations will help to diagnose and target conservation priorities. We sampled 209 individuals from 19 sites throughout the remaining V. variegata range. We used 10 polymorphic microsatellite loci and ∼550 bp of mtDNA sequence data to evaluate genetic structure and population dynamics, including dispersal patterns and recent population declines. Bayesian cluster analyses identified two distinct genetic clusters, which optimally partitioned data into populations occurring on either side of the Mangoro River. Localities north of the Mangoro were characterized by greater genetic diversity, greater gene flow (lower genetic differentiation) and higher mtDNA haplotype and nucleotide diversity than those in the south. Despite this, genetic differentiation across all sites was high, as indicated by high average F ST (0.247) and ΦST (0.544), and followed a pattern of isolation-by-distance. We use these results to suggest future conservation strategies that include an effort to maintain genetic diversity in the north and restore connectivity in the south. We also note the discordance between patterns of genetic differentiation and current subspecies taxonomy, and encourage a re-evaluation of conservation management units moving forward.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Andrea L Baden
- Department of Anthropology, Yale University New Haven, Connecticut, 06511 ; Department of Anthropology, Hunter College of City University of New York New York, 10065
| | - Sheila M Holmes
- Department of Anthropology, University of Calgary Calgary, Alberta, Canada
| | - Steig E Johnson
- Department of Anthropology, University of Calgary Calgary, Alberta, Canada
| | - Shannon E Engberg
- Grewcock's Center for Conservation and Research - Omaha's Henry Doorly Zoo and Aquarium Omaha, Nebraska, 68107
| | - Edward E Louis
- Grewcock's Center for Conservation and Research - Omaha's Henry Doorly Zoo and Aquarium Omaha, Nebraska, 68107
| | - Brenda J Bradley
- Department of Anthropology, Yale University New Haven, Connecticut, 06511
| |
Collapse
|
20
|
|
21
|
Patch size and isolation influence genetic patterns in black-and-white ruffed lemur (Varecia variegata) populations. CONSERV GENET 2013. [DOI: 10.1007/s10592-013-0455-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
|
22
|
Jürges V, Kitzler J, Zingg R, Radespiel U. First insights into the social organisation of Goodman's mouse lemur (Microcebus lehilahytsara)--testing predictions from socio-ecological hypotheses in the Masoala hall of Zurich Zoo. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2013; 84:32-48. [PMID: 23363617 DOI: 10.1159/000345917] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/04/2012] [Accepted: 11/16/2012] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
Following current socio-ecological hypotheses, the social organisation of a species is mainly determined by resource quality and distribution. In the case of Microcebus spp., a taxon-specific socio-ecological model was formulated earlier to explain their variable social organisation. The aim of this study was to test predictions from this model in Goodman's mouse lemur based on a data set from animals living in the semi-free colony of Zurich Zoo. During a 2-month study, we observed 5 females and 5 males using radiotelemetry. We collected data on space use and social behaviour, on sleeping sites and on sleeping group composition. Predictions were only partly confirmed. As expected, Goodman's mouse lemurs were solitary foragers with an increased level of sociality due to crowding effects at the feeding stations. In contrast to the prediction, females and males formed unisexual sleeping groups, which were stable in females and of a fission-fusion type in males. Whereas the formation of sleeping groups by both sexes may be triggered by thermoregulatory benefits, the formation of unisexual sleeping groups may result from divergent interests of the sexes. We conclude that the existing model for the evolution of mouse lemur social organisation needs to be refined.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Vivian Jürges
- Institute of Zoology, University of Veterinary Medicine Hanover, Hanover, Germany
| | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
23
|
Population genetics and abundance of the Endangered grey-headed lemurEulemur cinereicepsin south-east Madagascar: assessing risks for fragmented and continuous populations. ORYX 2011. [DOI: 10.1017/s0030605311000159] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/05/2022] Open
Abstract
AbstractKnowledge of both population size and genetic diversity is critical for assessing extinction risk but few studies include concurrent estimates of these two components of population biology. We conducted an investigation of population density and size, and genetic variation and past demographic events, of the Endangered grey-headed lemurEulemur cinereicepsin south-east Madagascar. We estimated lemur density using line-transect surveys and used satellite imagery to calculate forest fragment area in three localities. We collected tissue samples from 53 individuals and used 26 polymorphic microsatellite loci to obtain measures of population structure (divergence and diversity) across these localities. We tested the probability of past bottleneck events using three models. Contrary to expectation, there were no significant differences in population density across localities. Genetic diversity decreased, but not significantly, with decreasing habitat area and population size. We found a higher likelihood of past bottleneck events in the fragmented coastal populations. The low population size and prior decline in diversity in coastal patches are consistent with their isolation, anthropogenic disturbance, and exposure to cyclone activity. The similarities in the estimates of density between continuous and fragmented sites may indicate recent population growth in the fragments but these populations nevertheless remain at risk from reduced levels of genetic variation. These patterns should be confirmed with more extensive sampling across the limited range ofE. cinereiceps.
Collapse
|
24
|
Schubert G, Stoneking CJ, Arandjelovic M, Boesch C, Eckhardt N, Hohmann G, Langergraber K, Lukas D, Vigilant L. Male-mediated gene flow in patrilocal primates. PLoS One 2011; 6:e21514. [PMID: 21747938 PMCID: PMC3128582 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0021514] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/11/2011] [Accepted: 06/02/2011] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Many group-living species display strong sex biases in dispersal tendencies. However, gene flow mediated by apparently philopatric sex may still occur and potentially alters population structure. In our closest living evolutionary relatives, dispersal of adult males seems to be precluded by high levels of territoriality between males of different groups in chimpanzees, and has only been observed once in bonobos. Still, male-mediated gene flow might occur through rare events such as extra-group matings leading to extra-group paternity (EGP) and female secondary dispersal with offspring, but the extent of this gene flow has not yet been assessed. METHODOLOGY/PRINCIPAL FINDINGS Using autosomal microsatellite genotyping of samples from multiple groups of wild western chimpanzees (Pan troglodytes verus) and bonobos (Pan paniscus), we found low genetic differentiation among groups for both males and females. Characterization of Y-chromosome microsatellites revealed levels of genetic differentiation between groups in bonobos almost as high as those reported previously in eastern chimpanzees, but lower levels of differentiation in western chimpanzees. By using simulations to evaluate the patterns of Y-chromosomal variation expected under realistic assumptions of group size, mutation rate and reproductive skew, we demonstrate that the observed presence of multiple and highly divergent Y-haplotypes within western chimpanzee and bonobo groups is best explained by successful male-mediated gene flow. CONCLUSIONS/SIGNIFICANCE The similarity of inferred rates of male-mediated gene flow and published rates of EGP in western chimpanzees suggests this is the most likely mechanism of male-mediated gene flow in this subspecies. In bonobos more data are needed to refine the estimated rate of gene flow. Our findings suggest that dispersal patterns in these closely related species, and particularly for the chimpanzee subspecies, are more variable than previously appreciated. This is consistent with growing recognition of extensive behavioral variation in chimpanzees and bonobos.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Grit Schubert
- Department of Primatology, Max Planck Institute for Evolutionary Anthropology, Leipzig, Germany
- Junior Research Group Novel Zoonoses, Robert Koch Institute, Berlin, Germany
| | | | - Mimi Arandjelovic
- Department of Primatology, Max Planck Institute for Evolutionary Anthropology, Leipzig, Germany
| | - Christophe Boesch
- Department of Primatology, Max Planck Institute for Evolutionary Anthropology, Leipzig, Germany
| | - Nadin Eckhardt
- Department of Primatology, Max Planck Institute for Evolutionary Anthropology, Leipzig, Germany
| | - Gottfried Hohmann
- Department of Primatology, Max Planck Institute for Evolutionary Anthropology, Leipzig, Germany
| | - Kevin Langergraber
- Department of Primatology, Max Planck Institute for Evolutionary Anthropology, Leipzig, Germany
- Department of Anthropology, Boston University, Boston, Massachusetts, United States of America
| | - Dieter Lukas
- Large Animal Research Group, Department of Zoology, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, United Kingdom
| | - Linda Vigilant
- Department of Primatology, Max Planck Institute for Evolutionary Anthropology, Leipzig, Germany
- * E-mail:
| |
Collapse
|
25
|
Abstract
Landscape genetics has seen rapid growth in number of publications since the term was coined in 2003. An extensive literature search from 1998 to 2008 using keywords associated with landscape genetics yielded 655 articles encompassing a vast array of study organisms, study designs and methodology. These publications were screened to identify 174 studies that explicitly incorporated at least one landscape variable with genetic data. We systematically reviewed this set of papers to assess taxonomic and temporal trends in: (i) geographic regions studied; (ii) types of questions addressed; (iii) molecular markers used; (iv) statistical analyses used; and (v) types and nature of spatial data used. Overall, studies have occurred in geographic regions proximal to developed countries and more commonly in terrestrial vs. aquatic habitats. Questions most often focused on effects of barriers and/or landscape variables on gene flow. The most commonly used molecular markers were microsatellites and amplified fragment length polymorphism (AFLPs), with AFLPs used more frequently in plants than animals. Analysis methods were dominated by Mantel and assignment tests. We also assessed differences among journals to evaluate the uniformity of reporting and publication standards. Few studies presented an explicit study design or explicit descriptions of spatial extent. While some landscape variables such as topographic relief affected most species studied, effects were not universal, and some species appeared unaffected by the landscape. Effects of habitat fragmentation were mixed, with some species altering movement paths and others unaffected. Taken together, although some generalities emerged regarding effects of specific landscape variables, results varied, thereby reinforcing the need for species-specific work. We conclude by: highlighting gaps in knowledge and methodology, providing guidelines to authors and reviewers of landscape genetics studies, and suggesting promising future directions of inquiry.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Andrew Storfer
- School of Biological Sciences, Washington State University, Pullman, WA 99164, USA.
| | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
26
|
Schneider N, Chikhi L, Currat M, Radespiel U. Signals of recent spatial expansions in the grey mouse lemur (Microcebus murinus). BMC Evol Biol 2010; 10:105. [PMID: 20412584 PMCID: PMC2875232 DOI: 10.1186/1471-2148-10-105] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/04/2009] [Accepted: 04/22/2010] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Pleistocene events have shaped the phylogeography of many taxa worldwide. Their genetic signatures in tropical species have been much less explored than in those living in temperate regions. We analysed the genetic structure of a Malagasy primate species, a mouse lemur with a wide distribution (M. murinus), in order to investigate such phylogeographic processes on a large tropical island. We also evaluated the effects of anthropogenic pressures (fragmentation/deforestation) and natural features (geographic distance, rivers) on genetic structure in order to complement our understanding of past and present processes of genetic differentiation. Results The analysis of the mitochondrial D-loop sequences of 195 samples from 15 study sites (10 from a continuous forest and five from isolated forest fragments) from two adjacent Inter-River-Systems (IRSs) revealed that forest fragmentation and the river restrict gene flow, thereby leading to an increased genetic differentiation between populations beyond the effect of isolation-by-distance. Demographic simulations detected signals of two successive spatial expansions that could be preliminarily dated to the late Pleistocene and early Holocene. The haplotype network revealed geographic structure and showed deep molecular divergences within and between the IRSs that would be congruent with a two-step colonization scenario. Conclusions This study supports the hypothesis of a relatively recent spatial expansion of the grey mouse lemur in northwestern Madagascar, which may also explain why this taxon, in contrast to its congeners, has not yet undergone allopatric speciation in the studied area and possibly across its presently wide range.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Nicole Schneider
- Institute of Zoology, University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, 30559 Hannover, Germany
| | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
27
|
Quéméré E, Crouau-Roy B, Rabarivola C, Louis EE, Chikhi L. Landscape genetics of an endangered lemur (Propithecus tattersalli) within its entire fragmented range. Mol Ecol 2010; 19:1606-21. [PMID: 20345682 DOI: 10.1111/j.1365-294x.2010.04581.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 128] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
Habitat fragmentation may strongly reduce individuals' dispersal among resource patches and hence influence population distribution and persistence. We studied the impact of landscape heterogeneity on the dispersal of the golden-crowned sifaka (Propithecus tattersalli), an endangered social lemur species living in a restricted and highly fragmented landscape. We combined spatial analysis and population genetics methods to describe population units and identify the environmental factors which best predict the rates and patterns of genetic differentiation within and between populations. We used non-invasive methods to genotype 230 individuals at 13 microsatellites in all the main forest fragments of its entire distribution area. Our analyses suggest that the Manankolana River and geographical distance are the primary structuring factors, while a national road crossing the region does not seem to impede gene flow. Altogether, our results are in agreement with a limited influence of forest habitat connectivity on gene flow patterns (except for North of the species' range), suggesting that dispersal is still possible today among most forest patches for this species. Within forest patches, we find that dispersal is mainly among neighbouring social groups, hence confirming previous behavioural observations.
Collapse
|
28
|
Razakamaharavo VR, McGuire SM, Vasey N, Louis EE, Brenneman RA. Genetic architecture of two red ruffed lemur (Varecia rubra) populations of Masoala national park. Primates 2009; 51:53-61. [PMID: 19821011 DOI: 10.1007/s10329-009-0171-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/05/2009] [Accepted: 09/22/2009] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Abstract
The current range of the red ruffed lemur (Varecia rubra) population is primarily restricted to forests of the Masoala Peninsula on the northeastern coast of Madagascar. Whereas much of the peninsula is protected as Masoala National Park, parts of the forest are at risk from anthropogenic pressures and habitat fragmentation. We sampled 32 individual red ruffed lemur from two sites: Ambatoledama (DAMA), a narrow forest corridor across an area of degraded habitat connecting larger blocks of forest in the northwestern reaches of the park, and Masiaposa (MAS) forest, a largely pristine forest on the lower western side of the peninsula. Population genetic parameters were estimated for these two populations employing 15 microsatellite loci derived from the V. variegata genome. We found that by exceeding the expected heterozygosity at mutation-drift equilibrium, the DAMA population has undergone a recent population bottleneck. Population structure analysis detected individuals harboring genotypic admixture of the DAMA genetic cluster in the MAS population, suggesting a possibility of unilateral gene flow or movement between these populations.
Collapse
|
29
|
Vigilant L, Guschanski K. Using genetics to understand the dynamics of wild primate populations. Primates 2009; 50:105-20. [PMID: 19172380 PMCID: PMC2757609 DOI: 10.1007/s10329-008-0124-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/01/2008] [Accepted: 12/19/2008] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Abstract
While much can be learned about primates by means of observation, the slow life history of many primates means that even decades of dedicated effort cannot illuminate long-term evolutionary processes. For example, while the size of a contemporary population can be estimated from field censuses, it is often desirable to know whether a population has been constant or changing in size over a time frame of hundreds or thousands of years. Even the nature of "a population" is open to question, and the extent to which individuals successfully disperse among defined populations is also difficult to estimate by using observational methods alone. Researchers have thus turned to genetic methods to examine the size, structure, and evolutionary histories of primate populations. Many results have been gained by study of sequence variation of maternally inherited mitochondrial DNA, but in recent years researchers have been increasingly focusing on analysis of short, highly variable microsatellite segments in the autosomal genome for a high-resolution view of evolutionary processes involving both sexes. In this review we describe some of the insights thus gained, and discuss the likely impact on this field of new technologies such as high-throughput DNA sequencing.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Linda Vigilant
- Max Planck Institute for Evolutionary Anthropology, Deutscher Platz 6, 04103 Leipzig, Germany.
| | | |
Collapse
|
30
|
Quéméré E, Louis EE, Ribéron A, Chikhi L, Crouau-Roy B. Non-invasive conservation genetics of the critically endangered golden-crowned sifaka (Propithecus tattersalli): high diversity and significant genetic differentiation over a small range. CONSERV GENET 2009. [DOI: 10.1007/s10592-009-9837-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
|
31
|
Guschanski K, Caillaud D, Robbins MM, Vigilant L. Females shape the genetic structure of a gorilla population. Curr Biol 2009; 18:1809-14. [PMID: 19036341 DOI: 10.1016/j.cub.2008.10.031] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/06/2008] [Revised: 09/29/2008] [Accepted: 10/14/2008] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
Dispersal, one of the key life-history features of a species, influences gene flow and, consequently, the genetic structuring of populations. Landscape characteristics such as rivers, mountains, or habitat fragmentation affect dispersal and result in broad-scale genetic structuring of various mammalian species [1-5]. However, less attention has been paid to studying how dispersal is influenced by finer-scale microgeographic variation in a continuous habitat. Here we investigate the genetic structure of a closed population of approximately 300 endangered mountain gorillas living in multiple groups in a small (331 km(2)) forest in southwestern Uganda. In a species in which both sexes routinely disperse, population genetic structure in females was influenced by distance, altitude, and plant community composition, whereas males were not geographically structured. The effect of distance fits the observed tendency of females to transfer to neighboring groups, whereas the effects of altitude and vegetation reflect the changing species composition of locally available food resources. These results suggest that individual dietary preferences are important even in a highly mobile species living amid abundant food, and we propose that preference for natal habitats will influence dispersal decisions in many other vertebrate taxa.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Katerina Guschanski
- Max Planck Institute for Evolutionary Anthropology, Deutscher Platz 6, Leipzig 04103, Germany.
| | | | | | | |
Collapse
|